The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Scheme is a groundbreaking initiative launched by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to empower entrepreneurs and boost economic growth in Punjab. This scheme offers interest-free loans ranging from PKR 1 million (10 lakhs) to PKR 30 million (3 crores), aiming to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups across the province.
🔍 What Is the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Scheme?
Launched in early 2025, the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme is designed to provide financial assistance to individuals looking to start or expand their businesses. The scheme is divided into two main components:
Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme: Offers interest-free loans up to PKR 30 million.
Asaan Karobar Card: Provides loans between PKR 500,000 to PKR 1 million.
These initiatives aim to facilitate entrepreneurship, create job opportunities, and enhance the province’s economic landscape.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Asaan Karobar Scheme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Age: Between 25 and 55 years.
Citizenship: Must be a Pakistani citizen residing in Punjab.
Identification: Possess a valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
Tax Status: Registered taxpayer with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and a valid National Tax Number (NTN).
Business Premises: Own or rent the premises where the business operates.
Credit History: Maintain a clean credit history.
💸 Loan Tiers and Features
The scheme offers two tiers of loans, each with specific features:
| Loan Tier | Loan Amount (PKR) | Interest Rate | Repayment Period | Processing Fee (PKR) | Grace Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 1 million – 5 million | 0% | Up to 5 years | 5,000 | Up to 6 months |
| Tier 2 | 6 million – 30 million | 0% | Up to 5 years | 10,000 | Up to 3 months |
Repayments are made in equal monthly installments. In case of overdue payments, a late charge of PKR 1 per 1,000 rupees per day will be applied.
📝 How to Apply
Applying for the Asaan Karobar Scheme is a straightforward digital process:
- Online Application: Visit the official portal at akc.punjab.gov.pk to submit your application.
- Processing Fee: Pay the non-refundable processing fee (PKR 5,000 for Tier 1; PKR 10,000 for Tier 2).
- Document Submission: Upload necessary documents, including CNIC, NTN, business plan, and proof of business premises.
- Verification: Undergo digital verification of your CNIC, creditworthiness, and tax status.
- Approval and Disbursement: Upon approval, funds will be disbursed through the Bank of Punjab.
📄 Required Documents
Applicants need to provide the following documents:
Valid CNIC
NTN Certificate
Business Plan
Proof of Business Premises (ownership or rental agreement)
Bank Statements
Tax Returns
🎯 Benefits of the Scheme
Interest-Free Loans: Access to substantial funding without the burden of interest.
Flexible Repayment: Extended repayment periods with grace periods to ease financial pressure.
Economic Growth: Encourages entrepreneurship, leading to job creation and economic development.
Simplified Process: Digital application and verification streamline the process.
📊 Loan Tiers Overview
| Feature | Tier 1 | Tier 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Loan Amount | PKR 1M – 5M | PKR 6M – 30M |
| Interest Rate | 0% | 0% |
| Repayment Period | Up to 5 years | Up to 5 years |
| Processing Fee | PKR 5,000 | PKR 10,000 |
| Grace Period | Up to 6 months | Up to 3 months |
| Target Audience | Startups, Small SMEs | Established Medium SMEs |
📞 Contact Information
For more details and assistance:
Official Website: akc.punjab.gov.pk
Helpline: 1786
The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Scheme is a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship and economic prosperity in Punjab. By providing accessible, interest-free loans, the government empowers individuals to realize their business aspirations and contribute to the province’s development.
Conclusion
The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Scheme stands as a transformative initiative aimed at bolstering entrepreneurship and economic growth within Punjab. By offering interest-free loans ranging from PKR 1 million to PKR 30 million, the scheme provides a substantial financial foundation for both budding entrepreneurs and established businesses. With a streamlined digital application process, flexible repayment terms, and inclusive eligibility criteria, it addresses the financial barriers that often hinder business development. This initiative not only fosters individual economic empowerment but also contributes to the broader objective of sustainable economic development in the region.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Scheme?
The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Scheme is a government-backed initiative that offers interest-free loans to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Punjab. The scheme provides financial assistance ranging from PKR 1 million to PKR 30 million to eligible applicants.
Q2: Who is eligible to apply for the loan?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age: Between 21 and 57 years.
Residency: Must be a Pakistani citizen residing in Punjab.
Identification: Possess a valid CNIC.
Tax Status: Registered taxpayer with a valid NTN.
Business Premises: Own or rent the premises where the business operates.
Credit History: Maintain a clean credit history.
Q3: Are there any special provisions for women entrepreneurs?
Yes, the scheme includes special provisions for women entrepreneurs, offering them interest-free loans along with mentorship and training opportunities to empower women in business.
Q4: Where can I get more information or assistance?
For more details and assistance, applicants can visit the official website at akc.punjab.gov.pk or contact the helpline at 1786.